Upminster: A Tutu-tastic Adventure (Blog Post #769)
Hello darlings! Pink Tutu Sparkles here, your favourite pink-loving, tutu-wearing drag queen! It’s been a while since my last post - it’s been a whirl-wind few weeks travelling, performing, and of course, searching for the perfect pink tutu (you know me, always gotta be on the lookout!).
Today, I'm bringing you some sparkly glamour from the delightful town of Upminster! You see, my fabulous journey led me to this charming corner of Essex, and you better believe I brought my pink tutu along for the ride!
Riding the Rails
My adventure began, as many do, at a train station! I love the excitement of jumping aboard a train and leaving the daily grind behind for a little while. Plus, the opportunity to strike some seriously sassy poses by the window, you know? (Those photos will be popping up on my Instagram feed shortly!)
After a comfy and stylish journey (because, naturally, even train travel requires a touch of pink!), I found myself at the bustling heart of Upminster.
Upminster Charm
Let me tell you, this town is a real treat! Cobblestone streets, quaint cafes, independent shops – the whole place had an irresistible old-world charm that was simply begging to be explored. Of course, I couldn’t resist whipping out my phone and snapping some pictures, with the lovely pastel pink blossoms of the spring cherry trees making the perfect backdrop for a #PinkTutuSparkles selfie.
The Quest for the Perfect Tutu
No visit to a new place is complete without a little bit of retail therapy. You see, I have a passion for searching out the most dazzling and whimsical tutus (pink, obviously!), and Upminster didn’t disappoint.
The charming shop 'Alice’s Attic' turned out to be a veritable wonderland of tutus! The shopkeeper, a lovely woman named Margaret, clearly understood my obsession, showering me with pink options galore. I even spotted a stunningly feathered creation with layers and layers of tulle. I had to hold back from snapping it up there and then - I promised myself I wouldn't buy a tutu until my next show!
The Magic of Ballet
No trip to Essex would be complete without a visit to a ballet performance! This region has such a strong history of dance and the Upminster Theatre was playing a delightful rendition of "Swan Lake." Let me tell you, there’s nothing like the grace and beauty of ballet to spark joy and creativity within me. I could feel that inspiration bubbling up as I watched those beautiful dancers. (And yes, I did wear my favourite pink tutu for the occasion, because why not? Gotta spread the pink love!).
The Theatre was gorgeous, and there were even a couple of students with ballet bags – so sweet! I hope they know that the ballet world is an open and loving one and it doesn’t matter your background. In fact, seeing them gave me the urge to visit the local dance studio – why not have a class to inspire my next ballet routine?
Finding Inspiration at The Dance Studio
So, armed with newfound pink tulle and a heart brimming with dance-inspired enthusiasm, I made my way to Upminster Dance Studio. And let me tell you, those students were something else! There was so much energy in the studio, and such a spirit of camaraderie – I knew immediately I'd be right at home!
The instructor, a warm and welcoming woman named Amelia, offered me a place in her ballet class. She actually looked at me a bit oddly when I entered the room wearing my pink tutu - but let's be honest, most people react with disbelief the first time they encounter a TutuQueen!
Amelia’s dance moves were amazing, and she made me laugh during class as she described the steps in her fabulous theatrical voice! I got a real sense of belonging, a sense of belonging which is always welcome to a scientist trying to get used to his glamorous alter ego.
Performing My Pink Tutu Magic
Speaking of alter egos, as evening descended, it was time for Pink Tutu Sparkles to take centre stage at a lovely local fairground. After a few days of fun, my visit to Upminster culminated in a grand finale performance in a wonderfully vibrant and sparkly way!
I knew from the moment I set foot on the Upminster stage that this would be a show for the ages. You see, when it comes to my drag performances, I don't just entertain; I inspire! And this show, with a crowd eager to laugh, dance, and be swept away by a whirlwind of pink tulle and sequins, felt more magical than ever. The people loved my routine (they cheered as I tossed a bunch of little pink tutus into the audience).
Spreading the Tutu Love
You see, my dream is to make the world a brighter, more sparkly place, one pink tutu at a time! And in that way, my trip to Upminster was truly successful. I spread a bit of magic and a lot of pink sparkle, leaving behind a touch of glitter on the cobbles of the charming Essex town.
So, until next time, keep it fabulous and don't be afraid to embrace your inner tutu queen. (Or king, I don't discriminate!).
See you soon,
Pink Tutu Sparkles xoxox